New York City has long attracted foreign investors; however, in 2025, buyer behavior is shifting across the boroughs. With luxury price growth in Manhattan and a booming lifestyle market in Brooklyn, overseas investors are making strategic choices based on value, currency strength, and long-term goals.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore the top neighborhoods in Manhattan and Brooklyn where foreign buyers are currently investing, what’s driving those trends, and how preferences are evolving based on nationality, property type, and price point.
The Rise of Targeted Investment in NYC
Foreign buyers are no longer purchasing indiscriminately across New York. Instead, they are zeroing in on specific neighborhoods that offer lifestyle appeal, investment value, or long-term security.
According to data from leading brokerages and the NYC Department of Finance, foreign nationals now account for 15–18 percent of all high-end condo transactions in Manhattan and nearly 10 percent in emerging Brooklyn neighborhoods. These numbers are climbing thanks to favorable exchange rates and global asset diversification.
In this section, we break down which countries are most active and what property types they prefer before examining the specific neighborhoods.
Who Is Buying in NYC?
Top nationalities represented among foreign buyers in 2025 include:
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United Kingdom
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Germany
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China
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Canada
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France
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India
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South Korea
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United Arab Emirates
While the UK and Germany have shown a resurgence due to the euro and pound strength, Chinese buyers continue to dominate all-cash purchases, especially at the ultra-luxury level.
What Types of Properties Are Most Popular?
Foreign buyers overwhelmingly prefer condominiums over co-ops due to more relaxed ownership rules, ease of financing, and the ability to sublet or use as a pied-à-terre. Co-ops, which require board approval and may limit short-term use, are typically avoided.
Townhouses also attract high-net-worth buyers from Europe and the Middle East, particularly in Manhattan’s historic districts or Park Slope in Brooklyn.
Top Manhattan Neighborhoods for Foreign Buyers
Manhattan remains a focal point for international investment. Its global brand appeal, central location, and inventory of new luxury developments make it a natural choice for overseas buyers seeking long-term assets or lifestyle properties.
Midtown: The Core of Global Investment
Midtown continues to attract foreign capital due to its skyscrapers, proximity to corporate headquarters, and iconic views. Buildings like Central Park Tower and One57 are popular with Middle Eastern and Asian buyers seeking ultra-luxury and privacy.
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Price range: $2.5 million to $30 million+
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Buyer profile: UHNW individuals, diplomats, global executives
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Why it’s hot: Trophy properties, hotel-style amenities, proximity to business hubs
New developments often cater to international buyers with concierge services, on-site property management, and language-specific sales teams.
Upper East Side: Tradition and Prestige
Known for its historic townhouses and Fifth Avenue co-ops, the Upper East Side continues to be a magnet for European and Canadian buyers.
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Price range: $1.8 million to $10 million
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Buyer profile: Retirees, families, trust buyers
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Why it’s hot: Access to museums, Central Park, elite schools
While many co-ops limit foreign ownership, condo conversions along Park and Lexington Avenues are attracting overseas families interested in long-term living.
Tribeca: Luxury Meets Quiet Sophistication
Tribeca offers a mix of converted lofts and new luxury condos. Buyers from the UK, France, and Switzerland are drawn here for its vibrant downtown atmosphere and architectural beauty.
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Price range: $3 million to $15 million
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Buyer profile: Creative professionals, tech entrepreneurs, family offices
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Why it’s hot: Waterfront views, celebrity cachet, limited inventory
Foreign buyers love the quiet streets, top-ranked schools, and exclusive nature of Tribeca’s low-rise skyline.
Financial District: Value and Upside
The Financial District (FiDi) offers newer buildings at lower price points than Midtown, with the added benefit of proximity to Wall Street and access to Brooklyn.
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Price range: $850,000 to $2.5 million
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Buyer profile: First-time foreign investors, rental income seekers
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Why it’s hot: Subway access, new construction, tax incentives
Buyers from India, South Korea, and China are actively involved in this area, often seeking investment units with a good rental yield.
Top Brooklyn Neighborhoods for Foreign Buyers
Brooklyn has evolved from a haven for hipsters to a high-demand destination for international buyers. With greater space, newer inventory, and lifestyle appeal, Brooklyn offers foreign investors strong rental performance and long-term value.
Williamsburg: The Global Millennial Magnet
Williamsburg remains the most sought-after Brooklyn neighborhood among foreign buyers, particularly from Canada, the UK, and Germany.
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Price range: $1 million to $2.5 million
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Buyer profile: Young professionals, start-up founders, dual citizens
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Why it’s hot: Trendy retail, waterfront parks, ferry access to Manhattan
Condo buildings like The Oosten, 420 Kent, and Level offer full-service amenities with lower per-foot prices compared to Manhattan.
DUMBO: Design, Tech, and Views
Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass (DUMBO) is Brooklyn’s luxury frontier. It appeals to tech-savvy buyers from Europe and Asia looking for architecture, privacy, and Hudson River vistas.
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Price range: $1.5 million to $4 million
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Buyer profile: Tech executives, designers, gallery investors
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Why it’s hot: Landmark buildings, cobblestone streets, waterfront esplanade
Foreign investors often use DUMBO as a secondary home base when visiting NYC for business or extended stays.
Park Slope: Space and Community
Park Slope is a popular destination for many foreign families, who are drawn by its excellent schools, charming brownstones, and convenient park access. Buyers from France, Israel, and Australia often choose this area as their primary residence or for long-term investment.
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Price range: $1.3 million to $4 million (condos and townhouses)
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Buyer profile: Dual-national families, remote workers, embassies
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Why it’s hot: Prospect Park, liberal community, historic streets
Condo conversions and boutique new builds give international buyers modern interiors in a family-oriented setting.
Fort Greene and Clinton Hill: Underrated Gems
These neighborhoods are gaining traction among buyers from the Caribbean, Africa, and Southern Europe. With good transport, large units, and classic Brooklyn brownstones, the value proposition is compelling.
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Price range: $950,000 to $2 million
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Buyer profile: Educators, creative professionals, first-generation buyers
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Why it’s hot: Proximity to BAM, Pratt Institute, and new infrastructure
Developers are targeting international investors with new mid-rise projects that offer tax abatements and flexible down payment terms.
Comparing Buyer Behavior: Manhattan vs. Brooklyn
While both boroughs attract foreign capital, the motivations and profiles of buyers differ significantly. Understanding the distinction can help investors refine their search.
Price Sensitivity and Appreciation Outlook
Manhattan buyers tend to be less price-sensitive and more status-driven. In contrast, Brooklyn buyers focus on lifestyle and long-term appreciation.
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Manhattan offers higher liquidity and brand recognition.
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Brooklyn offers a better per-square-foot value and higher rental yields.
Investor vs. Lifestyle Purchases
In Manhattan, many foreign buyers acquire properties purely for investment or as a pied-à-terre. In Brooklyn, the purchases are often intended for primary or seasonal use, especially among families.
Market Dynamics
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Manhattan: Inventory is tighter in the luxury sector. High-end units are more competitive but offer global prestige.
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Brooklyn: Inventory is more diverse. Buyers can access modern layouts, green construction, and a neighborhood community.
How Foreign Buyers Choose Their Neighborhood
The choice of where to buy is not just based on pricing. Multiple factors influence neighborhood selection, often driven by nationality, profession, and lifestyle stage.
Nationality Preferences
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UK buyers: Tribeca, Williamsburg, Chelsea
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Chinese buyers: Midtown, Financial District
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French buyers: Upper West Side, Park Slope
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Indian buyers: FiDi, Long Island City
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German buyers: DUMBO, Williamsburg
Investment Goals
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Appreciation-focused buyers tend to lean toward neighborhoods with infrastructure investments and potential for rezoning.
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Rental income-focused buyers favor proximity to NYU, Columbia, or Google/Meta office clusters.
Cultural Anchors
Some buyers prefer areas with cultural ties. For example, Upper West Side synagogues attract Israeli buyers, while Koreatown’s expansion draws Korean investors to nearby Midtown buildings.
Trends Driving Foreign Investment in 2025
Understanding why these neighborhoods are gaining traction is beneficial for both buyers and sellers. Several macro trends are influencing decision-making this year.
Currency Strength and FX Timing
Buyers from the eurozone and UK are converting at historically strong exchange rates. This makes NYC real estate relatively discounted in euro and pound terms.
Global Political Shifts
Instability in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East is encouraging capital flight into U.S. real estate. NYC remains a legal and financial safe haven.
Lifestyle and Schooling
More international families are relocating or purchasing homes to facilitate access to U.S. schools, universities, and visa pathways. Brooklyn, in particular, has become a magnet for these buyers due to space and schooling options.
Green Buildings and Smart Design
Energy efficiency, low-emission construction, and smart-home tech are especially appealing to European and Canadian buyers, who seek sustainability and tech-forward features.
Where to Look Next: Up-and-Coming Areas
For investors looking to stay ahead of the curve, these neighborhoods are worth watching.
Gowanus (Brooklyn)
Rezoning is bringing new development and green space to this former industrial corridor. Already, European investors are acquiring pre-construction condos.
Hudson Yards (Manhattan)
Though slowed during the pandemic, Hudson Yards is regaining momentum. Buyers from the UAE and Singapore are targeting branded residences, such as The Lantern House.
Prospect Lefferts Gardens (Brooklyn)
Located near Prospect Park, this neighborhood offers early-stage pricing with future upside. Caribbean and African investors are already moving in.
Planning Your Purchase as a Foreign Investor
If you're considering a purchase in NYC, it’s essential to understand the legal and financial framework.
Favor Condominiums Over Co-ops
Co-ops often prohibit subletting and foreign ownership. Condos offer flexibility, easier financing, and no board interviews.
Work With a Cross-Border Attorney
An attorney familiar with foreign buyer tax treaties, FIRPTA rules, and estate tax exposure can prevent costly mistakes.
Consider Entity Ownership
Many buyers use LLCs or trusts to hold property. This enhances privacy, mitigates tax risk, and streamlines estate planning.
Explore Your Best Options in NYC
Whether you're drawn to the heritage brownstones of Park Slope or the shimmering towers of Midtown, foreign buyers in 2025 are strategically positioning themselves in the NYC market.
Would you like a tailored breakdown of where buyers from your country are investing? Or a comparison of Brooklyn vs. Manhattan rental yields? I can help create follow-up reports or investment briefs aligned to your next move.
